An imaging device that smoothly transfers electric charges from a photoelectric converter to a transfer destination is provided. This imaging device includes: a semiconductor layer; a photoelectric converter that generates electric charges corresponding to a received light amount; and a transfer section that includes a first trench gate and a second trench gate and transfers the electric charges from the photoelectric converter to a single transfer destination via the first trench gate and the second trench gate, the first trench gate and the second trench gate each extending from the front surface to the back surface of the semiconductor layer into the photoelectric converter. The first trench gate has a first length from the front surface to the photoelectric converter, and the second trench gate has a second length from the front surface to the photoelectric converter, the second length being shorter than the first length.
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2. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 1.
4. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 3.
An electronic apparatus includes an imaging device configured to capture images with enhanced dynamic range. The imaging device incorporates a pixel array with multiple types of pixels, including at least one high-sensitivity pixel and one low-sensitivity pixel, arranged to capture different exposure levels simultaneously. The imaging device also includes a processing circuit that combines the outputs from the different pixel types to generate a high dynamic range (HDR) image. The processing circuit may apply weighting factors to the pixel outputs based on their sensitivity levels and may further adjust the combined image to correct for noise or distortion. The electronic apparatus may be a smartphone, digital camera, or other imaging device where capturing high-quality images in varying lighting conditions is important. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing image detail in both bright and dark regions of a scene, which is difficult with traditional imaging sensors that use uniform pixel sensitivity. By integrating multiple pixel types and advanced processing, the apparatus achieves improved dynamic range without requiring multiple exposures or complex post-processing.
6. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 5.
This invention relates to electronic apparatuses incorporating imaging devices designed for enhanced image capture and processing. The apparatus includes an imaging device configured to capture images with improved resolution, dynamic range, or low-light performance. The imaging device may utilize advanced sensor technologies, such as back-illuminated CMOS sensors, multi-spectral filters, or pixel-level processing to optimize image quality. Additionally, the apparatus may include integrated processing circuitry to perform real-time image enhancement, noise reduction, or color correction. The imaging device may also feature adaptive exposure control, allowing dynamic adjustments to lighting conditions. The electronic apparatus could be a smartphone, digital camera, or other imaging-enabled device. The invention addresses the need for higher-quality imaging in compact electronic devices, particularly in challenging lighting environments or when capturing high-resolution images. The imaging device may further include optical components, such as lenses or light guides, to improve light collection and focus. The apparatus may also incorporate machine learning algorithms to enhance image recognition or scene analysis. The overall design aims to provide superior imaging performance while maintaining power efficiency and compact form factors.
8. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 7.
13. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 9.
This invention relates to an electronic apparatus incorporating an imaging device designed for capturing and processing images. The imaging device includes a sensor array configured to detect light and convert it into electrical signals, along with a processing unit that enhances image quality by reducing noise and improving resolution. The apparatus is equipped with a lens system to focus light onto the sensor array, ensuring sharp and clear images. Additionally, the imaging device may include an autofocus mechanism to adjust the lens position dynamically, optimizing focus for different distances. The electronic apparatus may further incorporate image stabilization technology to minimize blur caused by motion, either through optical or digital stabilization methods. The system may also feature advanced image processing algorithms to enhance color accuracy, contrast, and dynamic range. The apparatus is designed to operate in various lighting conditions, including low-light environments, by utilizing high-sensitivity sensors and noise reduction techniques. The overall design aims to provide a compact, efficient, and high-performance imaging solution suitable for integration into devices such as smartphones, cameras, or other electronic systems requiring image capture capabilities.
15. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 14.
17. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 16.
19. An electronic apparatus comprising the imaging device of claim 18.
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July 19, 2019
October 25, 2022
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